del20q by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About del20q by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Deletion 20q by FISH, 20q deletion FISH, Chromosome 20 long arm deletion FISH, del(20q) FISH, 20q- FISH |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow (sodium heparin, green-top tube) and peripheral blood (EDTA, lavender-top tube) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | Adults with suspected myeloid blood disorders; more common in males and older adults |
| Price | Starting at ₹7,200 |
What is a del20q by FISH Test?
The del20q by FISH test uses a technique called fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) to detect deletions on the long arm of chromosome 20. A deletion means a small segment of the chromosome is missing. This test is ordered by haematologists when a myeloid blood disorder is suspected.
It is also referred to as the Deletion 20q by FISH test or del(20q) FISH. Two samples are collected: a bone marrow aspirate and a peripheral blood sample.
What Does a del20q by FISH Test Measure?
The del20q by FISH test examines specific regions of chromosome 20 to detect whether any genetic material has been lost. The table below explains what each target region covers.
| Target Region | What It Looks At |
|---|---|
| Deletion at 20q12 | Checks for missing genetic material at the 20q12 location, covering the PTPRT gene region |
| Deletion at 20q13.1 | Checks for loss at the 20q13.1 location, covering the MYBL2 gene and D20S150 marker |
| Abnormal clone percentage | Measures the share of cells carrying the 20q deletion to confirm whether an abnormal cell population is present |
Why is a del20q by FISH Test Done?
This test is requested when a doctor suspects a myeloid blood disorder based on blood counts, symptoms, or earlier investigations. It gives genetic evidence to support or confirm a diagnosis.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Doctors may request a del20q by FISH test when a patient presents with the following symptoms:
- Persistent fatigue and unexplained weakness
- Unusual bruising or bleeding without clear cause
- Frequent or recurring infections
- Paleness and shortness of breath
- Dizziness or feeling cold without an obvious reason
- Headaches
- Chest discomfort or a sensation of breathlessness on mild exertion
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The Deletion 20q by FISH test helps identify or support the diagnosis of several blood-related conditions:
- Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), where the bone marrow does not produce healthy blood cells normally
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow
- Polycythaemia vera (PV), a condition in which the bone marrow makes too many blood cells
- Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), a group of disorders in which the bone marrow produces too many blood cells
- Therapy-related MDS (t-MDS), which can develop after chemotherapy or radiation treatment
del20q by FISH Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
Once a myeloid disorder is diagnosed, this test may be repeated at intervals to track how the disease is progressing or responding to treatment. The percentage of cells carrying the del(20q) change can rise or fall over time, giving doctors useful information. Monitoring clone levels helps the treating team make decisions about ongoing care.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The preparation for this test is straightforward, but the bone marrow collection procedure requires some planning. Here is what to keep in mind before your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before the del20q by FISH test. You may eat and drink normally on the day of sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Take note of the following before attending your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Tell your doctor about all medicines you currently take; some may need to be paused before the procedure, but do not stop any medication without medical guidance
- Inform your doctor if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners
- If you are receiving sedation during the bone marrow procedure, arrange for someone to take you home afterwards
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing that allows easy access to the hip area
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test requires two separate samples: a bone marrow aspirate and a peripheral blood sample. Here is what to expect for each.
Bone Marrow Sample Collection:
- You will be asked to lie on your side or stomach; most bone marrow samples are taken from the back of the hip bone (iliac crest)
- The skin over the area is cleaned and a numbing injection is given into the skin and the surface of the bone
- A special needle is carefully inserted into the bone and a small amount of bone marrow fluid is drawn out using gentle suction
- The sample is placed into a sodium heparin (green-top) tube and labelled for the laboratory
Peripheral Blood Sample Collection:
- A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm, into an EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Both samples are stored at 2 to 8°C and sent to the laboratory promptly for FISH analysis
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors can influence the reliability of results:
- Frozen or clotted specimens cannot be processed and will be rejected
- Samples collected in anticoagulants other than sodium heparin (for bone marrow) are not acceptable
- Low cellularity samples may not provide enough cells for accurate analysis
- Delayed transport reduces sample viability; samples should reach the laboratory as soon as possible
- Prior chemotherapy or radiation may introduce changes that affect interpretation
Understanding Your del20q by FISH Test Results
A qualified haematologist or pathologist will interpret your results in the context of your clinical history, other test findings, and overall health. The table below shows the general reference range used for this test.
| Parameter | Normal (Negative) | Abnormal (Positive) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cells with del(20q) | Below laboratory cut-off (typically below 4%) | At or above laboratory cut-off | % of cells analysed |
Note: Each laboratory establishes its own cut-off value. A result near the threshold will always be assessed alongside clinical findings.
"These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice."
Results During Special Conditions
Age-related changes can affect how results are read. The del(20q) change is the most frequently detected large structural genetic change associated with normal ageing, occurring in roughly 0.1% of older individuals. This is called age-related clonal haematopoiesis, and doctors will factor this in when reviewing results for elderly patients.
A negative result does not entirely rule out a blood disorder. Other chromosomal changes may still be present, and the abnormal clone may exist below the test's detection threshold.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While this test identifies a genetic change rather than a modifiable value, the following steps support overall wellbeing:
- Attend all follow-up appointments scheduled by your haematologist, particularly if monitoring an existing condition
- Report new or worsening symptoms, such as unusual fatigue, frequent infections, or unexplained bleeding, to your doctor promptly
- Support your general health through a balanced diet and appropriate physical activity as advised by your care team
Lupin Diagnostics del20q by FISH Test Price
The del20q by FISH test is priced at ₹7,200 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available, as bone marrow aspiration must be performed in a clinical setting by a trained healthcare professional.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 7200 |
| CHENNAI | 7200 |
| HYDERABAD | 7200 |
| KOLKATA | 7200 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 7200 |
| PUNE | 7200 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
The following steps explain how to book your del20q by FISH test online:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The del20q by FISH test detects a specific genetic deletion on the long arm of chromosome 20. It is primarily used to diagnose and classify myeloid blood disorders such as MDS, AML, and myeloproliferative neoplasms. The result helps doctors plan appropriate care.
You will feel a brief sting when the numbing medicine is injected, and mild pressure as the needle enters the bone. A sharp pulling sensation lasting a few seconds occurs as the marrow is withdrawn. The numbing medicine reduces discomfort significantly, and the procedure is over quickly.
Yes, a peripheral blood sample in an EDTA tube is collected alongside the bone marrow sample for the del20q by FISH test. However, bone marrow aspirate remains the primary and preferred specimen for accurate analysis.
A positive result means that a proportion of cells carry the del(20q) abnormality. When this deletion is the only abnormality found in MDS, it is generally associated with a more favourable outlook. Your haematologist will explain what the finding means for your specific situation.
The report for the del20q by FISH test is available within 3 days of sample collection at Lupin Diagnostics.
Clinical history helps the laboratory and reporting doctor interpret the FISH findings accurately. Details about your symptoms, previous blood counts, treatments received, and family history provide important context that influences how the result is read.
The test is scheduled from Monday to Saturday. Please contact your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre to confirm the available time slots before booking your appointment.
del20q by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
